YFL 8 set to be best one yet

The eighth edition of Yuma Fight League returns to Desert Sun Stadium

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA) - The cage returns to Yuma this weekend.

The eighth edition of Yuma Fight League will take place Saturday at Desert Sun Stadium, bringing another night of mixed martial arts action to the city. Organizers say the latest installment of the growing local promotion could be its biggest yet.

Kelvin Gastelum, a UFC hall of famer and creator of Yuma Fight League, said the promotion continues to build momentum as it reaches its eighth event.

“This is going to be our best event,” Gastelum said. “We’ve been running for about a year and a half. This is our eighth event, so we’re firing on all cylinders. People should come out and give it a shot. General admission tickets are only $15, so come on out.”

Yuma Fight League has also become known for bringing prominent figures from the sport to support the event and its fighters. Among those attending the weigh-ins and meet-and-greet was UFC Hall of Famer Randy Couture, a six-time UFC champion who praised the opportunities the promotion provides for local fighters.

“Future champions are born right here in Yuma at YFL,” Couture said. “Go out, do exactly what you’ve trained to do and have fun. It’s not always about winning. It’s about how you deal with adversity and the setbacks along the way.”

For the fighters themselves, the event represents a chance to perform in front of a passionate local crowd.

Giovanni Martinez Chavez said he was excited to compete in a city known for its enthusiasm for combat sports.

“I heard it was a fight town and everyone loves it down here,” Chavez said. “Everyone comes out and supports, so I thought it would be special.”

With weigh-ins and the fan meet-and-greet completed, the focus now turns to fight night. Doors at Desert Sun Stadium will open at 3:30 p.m., with the first bouts scheduled to begin at 6 p.m. as Yuma Fight League returns to the cage for another night of action.